Elderberry Bombs

DEC 21, 2023 | LINDSAY MUNDY

It’s the holiday season and we all know what that means: it’s also cold and flu season. So fun/ironic how those two coexist. It’s a time when taking intentional steps to support our immune system is particularly important. Today, I’m sharing a new trick that I have incorporated into my health routine this winter: elderberry bombs.

​I’ve had elderberry syrup in the house for a few years now, and especially like to use it with my kiddos. But once I learned that I could source dried elderberries, I was ready to dive into the world of immunity teas. These are very simple to make, and the trick is to have them prepped and ready before the colds hit your house. It’s used as a first-response method when you feel that first tickle in your throat. This is the time to pull out all of your virus-fighting weapons, before it’s too late. It’s the perfect opportunity to prioritize a couple extra hours of sleep, reduced sugar intake, and plenty of liquids.

​My kids are also using this recipe as small gifts for family members this year. Simply prepare all of the dry ingredients in a sachet or glass jar, print some cute instruction tags, and there you have it: the gift of health. 

​Give these elderberry bombs a try next time time you feel a cold coming on, stack it with extra sleep and proper nutrition, and see if you can keep that virus at bay. 

• ¾ cup dried elderberries
• 3 cups water
• 1 tsp cinnamon 
• 1 tsp dried cloves or 1 drop clove essential oil
• 1 Tbsp fresh ginger or 1 tsp dried ginger
• 1 cup raw honest 

1. In a large pot, bring the elderberries, water, cinnamon, cloves and ginger to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to a low simmer, cover and let steep until the liquid has reduced by half (about 45 minutes)
3. Allow to cool and then drain the liquid with a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Press all of the liquid out of the berries using the back of a large spoon.
4. Pour into ice cube trays and freeze (I like to use a large cube silicone tray like this one)
5. When you feel a cold coming on, enjoy 1-3 cups per day by pouring boiled water over a cube and stirring in some raw honey. ​
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*Note: check with your doctor if you suffer from an autoimmune disorder to ensure this is right for you.